Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has directed all political and public office holders within the state to declare their assets.
He stressed the crucial role of such declarations in ensuring transparency and building public trust in governance.
Governor Radda made this announcement on Tuesday while receiving Barrister Murtala Aliyu Kankia, the Acting Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), at the Katsina State Government House.
During the meeting, the Governor reiterated his commitment to providing a conducive working environment for CCB personnel in the state.
He stressed that declaring assets to the CCB should be a prerequisite for anyone entering public service.
This requirement, he explained, fosters transparency and holds officials accountable for their financial dealings.
Barrister Kankia, in his address, elaborated on the CCB’s responsibility beyond overseeing asset declarations. He highlighted their mandate to enforce the code of conduct for public officers, addressing issues like conflict of interest, bribery, corruption, prohibition of employment in foreign countries, membership in specific organisations, operating foreign bank accounts, and restriction of business activities to farming.”
Kankia issued a stern warning to officials concealing assets, emphasising that such assets would be forfeited to the Federal Government. He further outlined the consequences of false or anticipatory declarations, including a ten-year ban from holding public office or immediate dismissal from current positions.
Recognising the ongoing asset verification exercise targeting senior officials, permanent secretaries, and heads of government agencies, Kankia requested Governor Radda’s continued support in encouraging widespread asset declaration among all public servants.
He also sought collaboration from other stakeholders to ensure the CCB’s mandate is effectively fulfilled.